You Learn You Turn

Lauren Houck is a Youturn Health Peer Support Specialst who works on the reentry team. Her lived experience allows her to not only empathize with her clients, but forms a bond that is necesary for their success once they are on the outside.Her story is an example of how our coaches use their struggles and their triumphs to encourage others along a path to a life worth living. Lauren pours her heart out on this episode and will undoubtedly give hope to those still struggling. All of our peer coaches have lived experience for this reason: Regardless of receiving treatment while incarcerated – and only a small percentage do – individuals re-entering society need support for substance use, mental health, and life in general. This is where a peer coach with lived experience can make a profound difference.

Robbie Shaw is the founder and CEO of Eventide Recovery. His journey with alcohol also led him to create the nationally recognized podcast Champagne Problems. He and co-hosts, Samantha Hampson and Patrick Balsley have all worked in the addiction space and bring fresh perspectives to managing our relationship with alcohol.BIOGRAPHYShaw has an undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Southern Maine.He is trained in recovery coaching and intervention from the Addictions Academy in South Florida. Currently, Shaw is training as a Holistic Wellness Coach under the International Association of Wellness Professionals.He feels that the many opportunities he has had to work with others continues to inform the techniques and strategies used to educate and mentor clients.https://eventiderecovery.com/https://champagneprobspodcast.com/

Kevin Lynch embodies The Quell Foundation mission. Founded in December, 2015 in North Falmouth, MA, Kevin launched The Quell Foundation which aims to reduce the number of suicides, drug overdoses and incarceration of people living with a mental illness. Kevin works tirelessly, and without compensation, to remove the stigma and normalize the conversation of mental health. In doing so, he encourages others to share their stories and creates an environment for them to do so without fear of judgment. Leading by example, Kevin openly discusses his personal experiences with mental illness, often in some of the most public forums, including commencement addresses, corporate speaking engagements and over 100 college campuses across the United States.Kevin's career as a public servant began as a twelve-year veteran of the elite United States Naval Submarine Force. When an unfortunate injury ended his military career, Kevin chose the healthcare sector to continue his commitment of caring for and fighting for others in their time of need.Since the Foundation's inception, Kevin has played a major role in the creation and implementation of The Quell Foundation's programs and initiatives to reduce suicides and erase the stigma surrounding mental health. Kevin envisioned and implemented a scholarship program within The Quell Foundation which provides financial support to undergraduate and graduate level students who are either enrolled in a mental health degree related field, are living with a diagnosed mental illness themselves, or who had lost a parent/caregiver or sibling to suicide.Kevin grew The Quell Foundation's scholarship program from 16 scholarships in 2016 to over 1,800 scholarships today. To date, Quell has distributed over $3.2 million in awards to students attending over 480 different colleges and universities in all fifty states..As executive producer, and film subject, of The Quell Foundations' educational documentary, Portraits of Life with Mental Illness, Kevin aims to positively influence the public's perception of mental illness by fostering a culture of empathy and understanding through film. Statistically proven to reduce stigma, Portraits of Life With Mental Illness has been shown to over 20,000 individuals at college campuses, in corporate offices and with government agencies across the country. Kevin attends each screening, volunteering his time and expertise by serving as a panelist and directly engaging with the audience. He continues to partner with both local and national organizations to bring the film to communities in need. His research on this films ability to positively influence the viewer has been peer reviewed and published in an international medical journal.As the founder and CEO of Quell, Kevin has also brought forth his passion for mental health advocacy work for first responders. In 2022, Kevin served as an executive producer for his second documentary, First Responders Sound the Alarm. Through this work, Kevin fights to remove the stigma that lives within many of our nation's first responder communities. Since its release, First Responders Sound the Alarm has been shown throughout the country to hundreds of first responders with each screening being accompanied by an interactive panel discussion. In recent research conducted by our organization, early indicators show First Responders Sound The Alarm can better help first responders process traumatic events, increase willingness to disclose their mental health challenges to colleagues and show a greater readiness to work with peers who have a mental health illness.Kevin has transformed The Quell Foundation into a nationally acclaimed mental health organization known for turning advocacy into statistical change through its prestigious scholarship program, educational documentary series and First Responder Resilience Project. Kevin is a Fellow of The Pennsylvania State University Alumni Association where he earned a master's degree in Health Policy and Administration. In 2022 Kevin was named Alumni of the Year by Lynn University where he earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors. Kevin currently lives in Jupiter, Florida with his wife Karen and their dog Piper.Let's Remove the Stigma - The Quell Foundation

You Learn You Turn is once again highlighting an exceptional woman in construction, Kelly Flagg in honor of Women In Constuction Week this month.WIC Week™, or Women in Construction Week™, celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. NAWIC held the first WIC Week in 1998 and it has grown and expanded each year since. Many of our local chapters hold WIC Week events, which can include making presentations to high school classes, job site tours, luncheons and virtual events.This year's theme, 'Keys to the Future', celebrates the strength and knowledge of women and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry.Kelly Is the Executive Director for AGC Maine. AGC Maine is a legislative advocate for the construction industry and also provides safety education, management courses, technical training and apprenticeship opportunities through the Maine Construction Academy. Kelly maintains a seat on the Career Management Associates roster as a Contract Speaker and Trainer, and is a current member of the National Association of Women in Construction. Throughout her career, she has become a trusted advisor to many in business leadership, human resources and safety management. She is particularly passionate about teaching front line and newly promoted supervisors how personal leadership growth can improve team dynamics. Her focus is on supporting development of the individuals in order to enhance the team. Women in Construction Week (wicweek.org)Home | Associated General Contractors of America (agc.org)AGC Maine Team - AGC Maine

WIC Week™, or Women in Construction Week™, celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. NAWIC held the first WIC Week in 1998 and it has grown and expanded each year since. Many of our local chapters hold WIC Week events, which can include making presentations to high school classes, job site tours, luncheons, and virtual events.This year's theme, 'Keys to the Future', celebrates the strength and knowledge of women and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry.Construction firms of all sizes and types are encouraged to participate in WIC Week and show their support for their women employees.You Learn You Turn is honored to have guest Mandi Kime who exemplifies exceptionalism in construction as she works tirelessly to normalize conversations around mental health and suicide prevention in the workplace.Mandi is a Central Washington University alumnus of the safety and health management program and currently serves as the director of safety for AGC of Washington. She also has a bachelor's degree in foreign language and teaches Spanish for supervisors in the construction industry. She recently earned her master's degree in Safety & Health Management and published a thesis and employer best practice guide on mental health interventions in construction. Mandi has worked in AGC's safety department for 20 years, helping members with safety programs, and working on legislative/regulatory issues pertaining to safety. Mandi currently serves as the co-chair of the AGC of America Chapter Safety Leadership Committee and the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Task Force. Mandi enjoys spending time camping and traveling with her family, including her 16-year-old daughter and 11-year-old triplets. Mandi was the only safety professional selected by Construction Business Owner for the 2019 class of top 20 Outstanding women in construction from 200 nominees and was featured in their November 2019 issue.Women in Construction Week (wicweek.org)About - AGC of Washington (agcwa.com)

Dr. Olivia Johnson and Erin Craw discuss the hardships First Responders face both on and off the job. She was recently part of the documentary called Is There Something Going on at Home? where she discusses how to navigate trauma with two families. Dr. Johnson has dedicated her life to improving the mental health programs for First Responders and finding solutions that work for the family.Dr. Olivia Johnson is a United States Air Force veteran, a former police officer, and a suicidology researcher. Dr. Johnson holds a master's in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a doctorate in Organizational Leadership Management from the University of Phoenix, School of Advanced Studies. Dr. Johnson works as a consultant, trainer, and Director of Training and Development for Responder Health and is the founder of the Blue Wall Institute where she provides consulting, needs assessment, and training to organizations and agencies in need. Correspondence can be sent to: olivia@BW-Institute.com

Chris Thompson of the wildely successful Sober Sidekick app sits down for an imformative session with our very own Chief Clinical Officer, Rich Jones.Chris Thompson is the founder of Sober Sidekick, the largest digital recovery community in the world. He founded this platform because he believes the opposite of addiction is connection, and believes that his own recovery is dependent on his willingness to be of service to others.About | Sober SidekickHis own journey through addiction propelled one entrepreneur to launch Sober Sidekick | FortuneNew Year, New You: Sober Sidekick CEO Chris Thompson's Comeback Story - Men's Journal (mensjournal.com)(1) Chris Thompson | LinkedIn

Tiffany Hines is back with more insight into how she found recovery but even more important, how she maintains this on daily basis. Staying away from past behaviors and patterns can be hard without the right support systems in place. Find someone you can confide in and that will hold you accountable. It could save your life!Tiffany Hines is a coach for Youturn Health and works to help others find a stable life with new opportunities and hope for the future. She spent many years in and out of prisons and treatment centers until one day, she became open to change.Listen to PART ONE here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/tiffany-hines-part-one-a-story-of-hope-resilience-and-giving-back--58586174

Tiffany Hines is a coach for Youturn Health and works to help others find a stable life with new opportunities and hope for the future. She spent many years in and out of prisons and treatment centers until one day, she became open to change. Through love and support from her family, she dug into the 12-step program offered at the treatment center. From there, she moved into sober living and did everything they told her to do. She soon got her kids back, found somewhere to live, and got a job in a treatment center. Serendipitously, she came across our CEO in a meeting with her dad and the rest is history!Listen to Part One of her story here.

Jeff Johnston is the CEO of startup Brightn, Author, Founder of The Living Undeterred Project, and host of The Living Undeterred Podcast.Listen to our conversation about devasting loss and unbelievable resiliance. In 2016 Jeff lost his son, Seth to fentanyl poisoning. In 2021, Jeff lost his wife to alcoholism resulting from grief. Instead of going down a road of anger and despair, Jeff used this as motivation to make a difference and change the way we approach mental health and substance misuse. Jeff's story will encourage you to keep going even in the hardest of circumstances. You can find Jeff here:jeff@brightnapp.comHome | Living Undeterred

Youturn Health is proud to introduce our sister podcast The Path Forward with host Augie Ghilarducci where he will bring guests who have walked the path of re-entry. He will show listeners that incarceration does not define a person, it is just one chapter in their book. His guests will provide journeys of hope, inspiration, and resources. In this extraordinary episode of The Path Forward, we delve into an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity as our special guest, Dr. Chico Tillmon, shares his remarkable journey. Join us in this riveting conversation as he recounts his experiences and unveils the powerful transformation that led him to become a key figure in the fight against gun violence.Our guest's journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring, marked by resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact on his community. From navigating the challenges of incarceration to emerging as a prominent gun violence subject-matter expert, his story is a testament to the boundless potential for change and growth within each individual.The episode sheds light on how our guest, once ensnared by the criminal justice system, transformed his life through education, emerging as a powerful advocate for change. As the Director of the Community Violence Intervention Leadership Academy, he has become a driving force behind innovative approaches to addressing and preventing gun violence.The conversation also explores his unexpected journey to the White House, where his expertise has been recognized and utilized in shaping policies aimed at curbing community violence. From adversity to advocacy, this episode encapsulates a narrative of second chances, educational empowerment, and the unwavering determination to create positive change.The Path Forward Podcast is brought to you by Youturn Health and 2nd Opportunity.The Path Forward on Apple Podcasts

It has never been easier to place a bet. Once confined mostly to casinos concentrated in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, gambling has expanded to include ready access to lotteries and online games and video games with gambling elements for adults and children. Sports betting is now legal in 37 states plus Washington, DC, with six more considering legislation, according to American Gaming Association data from early 2023. People can gamble around the clock from anywhere and, increasingly, at many ages, including teenagers and even young children who are well below the legal age for gambling. As access to gambling has expanded, psychologists and other experts have become concerned not just that more people will give it a try, but that more will develop gambling problems. And while it is still too soon to know what the long-term effects will be, evidence is growing to suggest that young people, especially boys and men, are among those particularly vulnerable to gambling addiction—the same demographic most often participating in the newest forms of gambling: sports betting and video game-based gambling. *Youturn Health's CEO Hamilton Baiden and Craig Carton have been friends for years. Craig was a successful radio and television personality until his gambling addiction landed him in prison for 12 months. Listen to his story where he seemingly has it all but falls into the dark world of high stakes gambling where his life was literally at stake. Since getting out of prison and finding work again in his chose profession, he works hard to carry the message of recovery to others.Craig Carton is an American radio and television personality. He was the co-host of the Carton and Roberts sports radio program on WFAN in New York City, and is seen nationally on Fox Sports 1 as host of The Carton Show weekday mornings. He previously co-hosted Boomer and Carton on WFAN and later CBS Sports Network from 2007 to 2017.During its 10-year run, Boomer and Carton became the most listened to show in WFAN history, placing first among men ages 25–54. In September 2017, Carton resigned from the program and WFAN after his arrest for securities and wire fraud. He was sentenced to three and a half years in prison, and after serving 12 months, he was released in 2020.That year, he was rehired by WFAN, for which he currently hosts the #1 rated afternoon-drive program with Evan Roberts. Carton also hosts a podcast and public service show called Hello, My Name Is Craig in which he attempts to help listeners work through their gambling addiction and other issues. The show recently celebrated its 100th episode.*How gambling affects the brain and who is most vulnerable to addiction (apa.org) The Carton Show Episodes & Replays | FOX Sports

Singer and songwriter, Edwin McCain shares his journey from childhood dyslexia to addiction to his present-day life. He shares his success and failures and gives us some interesting ways to look at life. He is a talented musician, a wonderful father, and a great friend to all of us at youturn. You don't want to miss this one!Called the “great American romantic” by the New York Times, Edwin McCain has built an enviable career over the past 20 years by balancing his massive pop success with the year-round touring schedule of a tireless troubadour. His hit songs, authentic spirit and surprisingly affable sense of humor keep fans coming back time and time again for nights that feel more like parties with old friends than rock concerts. After recording two of the biggest love songs in the history of pop music, McCain now performs upwards of 100 shows annually throughout the US as a solo artist, with his full band or his acoustic trio. Recently, he's added orchestras to his repertoire, performing with symphonies in select markets where he brings his powerful songs to majestic new heights. Edwin is in recovery and is passionate about helping others achieve and maintain their own recovery from addiction.

Augie Ghilarducci knows what it's like to be at a crossroads and to need a second opportunity. After owning and operating a financial planning firm for fourteen years, he made a series of bad decisions that led to him being convicted of white-collar crimes. He served 13 years in Federal Prison before returning to Chicago in July 2017. He presently resides in Atlanta. To make sense of his experience, Augie used his time in prison to help others. As part of a community outreach program, he spoke about his ethical failures at high schools, colleges, and businesses for almost a decade. He also developed a series of employment readiness, financial literacy, life skills, and barriers to re-entry courses that he taught to fellow inmates.When he was released, he turned his passion into a second career empowering those dealing with incarceration, addiction, trauma, loss, and other life-changing events to break the chains of the past and create a positive new future. He has written white papers A Parallel Path, Collaboration for Social Benefit, It Takes More than a Job, It Begins in Jail™, and The Jigsaw Puzzle Called Re-entry. Augie draws on his lived experience to speak both in person and virtually in jails and prisons, substance abuse recovery centers, drug courts, halfway houses, probation departments, juvenile detention centers, and diversion programs. The message provides a practical approach to raising awareness as to how individuals can find and stay on the right path, and to law enforcement about making inmates more productive to help make jails safer. Augie was featured in a recent American Jails Magazine article and spoke at the 2023 Correctional Education Association Leadership Conference in New Orleans. He has achieved a Master's Certificate in Business Ethics and an MBA since being released in 2017, having started both while incarcerated. Augie now shares the 2nd Opportunity Program in jails and prisons around the country.

According to NIH, "Opioid use disorder and opioid addiction remain at epidemic levels in the U.S. and worldwide. Three million US citizens and 16 million individuals worldwide have had or currently suffer from opioid use disorder (OUD). More than 500,000 in the United States are dependent on heroin."John Watson was seventeen when his best friend was in an accident and given Oxycotin for the pain. Kids being kids, John and his friend discovered that this pill made them feel very good. At the time, no one knew the addictive nature of these drugs and John thought he was just having fun and experimenting. Eight years later, he realized he was trapped and could not stop using on his own. When he couldn't find any on the street, he turned to heroin, something he said he would NEVER do. Listen to John tell his story about how opioids highjacked his brain, stole years of his life and almost killed him. Despite knowing he was on a downward spiral for years, his family never turned their back on him. If you want to better understand the realities of opioid addiction and gain hope when it seems all is lost, listen to John Watson's story and you will know that everyone can recover.

The holidays are HARD! Especially when trying to navigate family, functions and the added stress while tyring to stay sober and sane. Liz and Leigh Huckins, a Youturn Health recovery coach team lead, discuss some things that worked for them in early recovery and that they still practice today. We hope everyone can glean some ideas on how to enjoy this time of year while always keeping your recovery in front of everything else. Leigh was born and raised in Anderson, SC, Leigh has been in recovery since 2014. She graduated from Clemson University and moved to Charleston, SC where she started her career. After living in Charleston for 10 years, her life had spiraled out of control with substances, so she sought treatment and moved back home to Anderson.Upon completion of treatment, Leigh dove into recovery through different types of recovery meetings and utilized a Recovery Coach. She became a volunteer Recovery Coach at a local Recovery Community Organization and eventually took the Certified Peer Support Specialist Training for South Carolina.Leigh has been working in the recovery field since 2018 as a CPSS, Program Manager for a RCO, a trainer for CPSS, and most recently joining Youturn as a Team Lead.In her spare time, Leigh enjoys all the fun and constant moving of her three beautiful children, husband, and animals!

Kim Hix has made it her life's mission to spread awareness about fentanyl poisoning. A wife, mother and nutrition, health, and fitness coach of 20 years, Kim knows her way around the wellness space. She knew when her daughter started using drugs as a coping mechanism that she needed to step in. She was a constant support to her daughter Kelsie helping her navigate treatment and recovery. Once home however, Kelsie managed to get ahold of a Xanax which would prove to be fatal. What she thought was a Xanax was really laced with Fentanyl-enough to cause her to stop breathing. It was February of 2022 when Kim found Kelsie slumped over in her room and her life changed forever. Fentanyl is the most potent opioid pain reliever available for use in medical treatment. It is roughly 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Used correctly, it is a useful and powerful pain reliever, but too much will kill you and there is no way to tell how much may be in any drug sold outside of a prescription. It is in cocaine, marijuana, pain pills, anxiety medication, and many more. Help support Kelsie's Cause, created by Kim to help spread awareness and education about the dangers of fentanyl. It could save the life of someone you know! HOME | fentanyl awareness kelsie's cause (kelsiescause.com)

Having a loved one struggling with substance use disorder can be scary enough without googling the word addiction. At Youturn Health we know that educating and supporting the family is the most important piece of the puzzle. Adam Fisher has written a comprehensive book containing everything from talking to your loved one, to the importance of getting help for your self and even a list of drugs and the effects they have. It is a one stop shop for someone navigating substance use disorder and will leave the reader feeling empowered. Adam Fisher is a Nationally recognized author from Greenville, South Carolina and a person in long term recovery, with a sobriety date of July 8, 2008. He has just published his 7th book, released in September of 2023, titled “Unbreaking The Brain: Helping your child escape drug addiction”.Fisher has a wide range of writing styles that include healthcare, sports, historical, comedy, instructional, and fiction to name a few. A complete list of published works can be found on his website: fishwrite.net. Adam holds a degree in Journalism from the University of South Carolina. He is also a Certified Peer Support Specialist, is very active in the local recovery community, and dedicates his life to helping others who suffer from addiction to find a way to a new life.

The Pinal County Sheriff's Office has served residents of Pinal County, Arizona since 1875. With 500 employees and 550 inmates, the Sheriff's Office has a mission to preserve the peace, protect life and property, and promote public safety while upholding the constitution.Youturn Health and Pinal County have a new partnership to provide employees of Pinal County Sheriff's Office and their families as well as inmates of the Pinal County correctional system with education and peer coaching support. This podcast with Chief Hedrick and his co-workers is about this partnership and how its having a direct impact on prisoners's lives."Our shared desire of restoring families to the very best version is and always will be what will sustain our partnership."-Deputy Chief HedrickIn over 25 years in law enforcement Deputy Chief Hedrick has served in various assignments ranging from FTO to Gangs to Ranger. Chief Hedrick has served the communities he has protected in various capacities such as a GED teacher, Coach, and Church Leader. Matt Hedrick has been married for 30 years to his wife Katy and they have three children.

Meeting people where they are is the theme that runs through Youturn Health. We do not believe that rock bottom is necessary to receive compassion and hope. Sometimes just an ear to listen will change a person's trajectory in life.Add to that a warm cooked Sunday dinner and you have the beginnings of real change. That is exactly what John Martin and his wife Cassandra provide with their non-profit, Sunday Dinner with a Twist. John was once homeless, addicted to drugs and alcohol, and suicidal.He credits one man and his higher power for his ability to turn his life around and give back to the community. He says if there is one person who will never give up on you, listens, and shows compassion, anything is possible. We are constantly barraged by messages of doom and gloom in the world today, but John and his wife show us the possibility of beautiful outcomes when we stop, listen, show compassion, and even provide a warm meal. Learn more about their mission here:Sunday Dinner With A TwistJohn Martin | LinkedIn

Fronzie and Mags Roemer are turning grief into action, and with their fierce determination are hoping to give emotional support animals to anyone struggling with a mental health issue. They were able to have a front row seat to witness the positive impact an ESA can have on someone's life. Although their beloved son and brother Patrick is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in their non-profit aptly named Paws for Patrick.Paws for Patrick was created to honor the memory of Patrick Roemer through providing support to young people with mental illness through the use of emotional support animals (ESAs) and therapy animals. ​Patrick brought joy to so many people during his short life. His family will always cherish memories of his infectious laugh, heart-warming smile, analytical conversation, authentic creativity, discipline for physical fitness, and especially his love of animals, particularly dogs.His friends remember him for his sharp and often irreverent wit, his patient and compassionate listening, his loyalty, and fearless competitive nature as witnessed in his participation in wrestling, football, rugby, and obstacle course races.​Patrick had a very special connection with his animals, particulary his beloved dog, Cici. No matter what was going on in his life, he would find peace, comfort and light when he was with her. After Cici's quick and unexpected death, Patrick adopted Indy, a Cici lookalike, and planned to have her join him when he entered Colorado State University as a freshman in the fall of 2020. Unfortunately, Patrick struggled with depression and anxiety through most of his young life, and this disease took him from his loved ones at the young age of 18. Patrick's mom Fronzie and his sister Mags are commtted to making sure everyone needing as ESA gets one. We hope you will consider donating time and money to this incredible cause that will save lives. To learn more:Make a Donation | Paws for PatrickEmotional Support Animals | Paws for Patrick

Host of the award-winning podcast The One You Feed Eric Ziimmer spends an enlightening hour with Rich and Liz. With a deep desire to help others, Eric shares his story from homelessness and heroin addicition to successful behavior coach, writer and podcast host. Discussing his experiences on the road to wellness, listeners will walk away with tangible solutions and steps to take for their own journeys.The One You Feed, based on an old parable about two wolves at battle within us. With over 600 episodes and over 30 million downloads, the show features conversations with experts across many fields of study about how to create a life that has less suffering and more fulfillment and meaning. His story and his work have been featured in the media including TedX, Mind Body Green, Elephant Journal, the BBC and Brain Pickings.About Eric Zimmer - The One You FeedEric Zimmer | LinkedIn

Lauren Houck is a Youturn Health Peer Support Specialst who works on the reentry team. Her lived experience allows her to not only empathize with her clients, but forms a bond that is necesary for their success once they are on the outside.Her story is an example of how our coaches use their struggles and their triumphs to encourage others along a path to a life worth living. Lauren pours her heart out on this episode and will undoubtedly give hope to those still struggling. All of our peer coaches have lived experience for this reason: Regardless of receiving treatment while incarcerated – and only a small percentage do – individuals re-entering society need support for substance use, mental health, and life in general. This is where a peer coach with lived experience can make a profound difference.

At Youturn Health we love to hightlight stories that illustrate the resiliance of the human spirit that show us anything is possible. If you are a loved one of someone struggling or someone who thinks they will never find a life in recovery, this podcast is for you. We never give up on someone and you should never give up on yourself. It is never too late. If there is breath, there is hope.Joshua Villarreal is thriving after a long battle with substance use disorder which landed him behind bars and eventually to a suicide attempt. His story begins with his trying cigarettes and progresses to heroin and meth and eventually to his first arrest. Throughout his journey, he remained true to his love of music which would eventually become his life's purpose. At one point in the story, there is a pivital moment that could have dramatically changed Josh's life forever. Because of a first responder's empathy and ability to see beyond the stigma of drug addiction, Josh was given an option to spending a life behind bars. He grabbed the opportunity, and has never looked back, showing us that everyone deserves a second chance to turn their lives around.

Kasmira Cryer is someone who saw first-hand the devisivness media can create. Instead of staying in the problem she is committing herself to elevate media and social influence to unite the world! Tara Trantham is a lawyer determined to use her story to create better systems for victims of family violence and mental health issues. This dynamic duo are not only inspiring, they are creating a positive way forward, promoting love and acceptance for all. Follow them both on social media to keep up with their latest projects.Amanda Kazzy Cryer is a Filmmaker, Social Impact Influencer, Consultant and Strategist. She is committed to elevating voices through social media, film and traditional media, and is passionate about media-driven projects that bring awareness to social issues. Having lived and worked in both developed and developing countries, she has been active in co-creating opportunities to solve problems, shift systems, and activate the inner capacity of leaders to create lasting change. As a social impact influencer and consultant, Amanda has coached and worked with hundreds of people from all different backgrounds including influencers, leading change makers and emerging changemakers in media, celebrities, community activists, leaders at the United Nations, scientists, philosophers, thought-leaders, TV and Film personalities, Nobel Prize recipients, CEOs, actors, and founders of nonprofits and triple bottom line organizations. Since 2009, Amanda has been practicing the Conscious Full Spectrum Response framework developed by her mentor Dr. Monica Sharma (former Director of Leadership and Capacity Development at the United Nations) in systems shift language and transformative dialogue in media. The CFSR is a unique response model based on extensive application, which simultaneously in time solves problems, illuminates and shifts systems and creates new patterns sourced from individual inner capacity and transformational leadership. This particular model has generated sustainable results worldwide. ​Amanda was the Project Director for United Global Shift, a non profit that delivers workshops for people engaged in initiatives that make a difference. UGS coaches people on projects that both empower individuals and shift the systems that perpetuate chronic issues such as poverty, discrimination, environmental degradation and war. United Global Shift works with leaders and emerging leaders who want to be at the forefront of positive change. UGS mission statement: We are causing a united global shift in what is possible for humanity, focusing on the environment, entrepreneurship, health and education. A shift from survival and scarcity to possibility and peace. Amanda coached emerging leaders in project management and strategic planning that addressed systemic issues.​As a filmmaker, Amanda's productions have included What They Wanted, What They Got, which sold to Showtime; and the multiple award winning, Luz: The Flower of Evil. From 2009 to 2012, she worked with a cohort of Native American actors, including alumni of the Twilight film series, to bring awareness to the water infrastructure issues negatively impacting Indigenous communities across the country. She also worked at Roy Lee's production company Vertigo Entertainment (Doctor Sleep, It, The Departed, The Lego Movie) and served as a producer on the award-winning short film The Lord of Catan starring Fran Kranz (The Cabin in The Woods,Mass) and Amy Acker (Person of Interest, Angel). She co-founded Do Good Media and 1 Voice World, production companies involved in the development and co-creation of media driven projects that look at what's possible when we overcome polarization and move towards unity. Amanda's latest film, Inside Men, highlights personal stories from people whom the prison system has affected in one way or another, the injustices of the prison industrial complex repudiating governmental structures, and private industries that view prisons as a solution to their bottom lines and societal challenges.​She is a conscious activist for ethical eating, prison reform, mental health, addiction, human trafficking and people experiencing homelessness and poverty.Tara received her B.A. degree in Political Science with a minor in Religious Studies from The University of North Carolina in 1995 where she was involved in various campus organizations. She went on to receive her J.D. degree from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois, where she was ranked in the Top 15% of her class, on the Dean's List and received the Dean's Grant Scholarship. She studied International Comparative Law in Norway, was a Student Advisor and a member of Moot Court Health Law Competition Team along with other campus organizations.Tara began her career at AGFA Corporation, Healthcare Division, as an Assistant General Counsel in August 2001. In August 2005, she accepted a position as Vice President and Assistant General Counsel with Sherman Financial Group, LLC/Resurgent Capital Services, LLP. She was Assistant Secretary and Assistant General Counsel at Security Finance Corporation of Spartanburg from 2009 to 2012. Tara became the Senior Vice President, Secretary, Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel of World Acceptance Corporation in 2013 to 2018. Tara served as Chief Legal Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, Secretary and General Counsel for Heights Finance from 2018 to 2021.Tara was appointed General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer for Omni Financial until December 2021.In February of 2022, Tara founded her own fractional general counsel company, Rise Legal Team.Tara is an experienced, detail oriented corporate lawyer with excellent litigation and management skills and is a driven team leader. Having over 23 years of experience, Tara is an expert in the financial services industry and specializes in regulatory compliance and risk management, SEC reporting, mergers and acquisitions and licensing issues. Her expertise led to handling the seminal CID from the CFPB in the installment loan industry resulting in a no finding.She is a member of the Georgia Bar, the American Bar Association, and has served on the Board of Directors for American Financial Services Association, Served on the Law Committee with American Financial Services Association (AFSA). Served as Chair of the State and Government Affairs Committee with AFSA. Tara has been very active in her local community as well, serving on the Board of Safe Harbor, the Board of the Greenville Symphony, was a member of the class of 35 Leadership Greenville, Furman Diversity and Inclusion Program, Greenville Professional Women's Forum, Member of Female Leaders of the Upstate, and spends much of her time volunteering at local organizations.Tara is married to her husband Jonathan and has one son Christian. She treasures time with her family and loves to watch her son play football. Tara has completed her first book, entitled, “Take Off that Mask, Life Ain't No Masquerade Ball”, detailing her personal journey from a failed suicide attempt to thriving and living with joy, love and kindness.Tara Trantham | LinkedInAmanda "Kazzy" Cryer | LinkedIn

Camp Hope is a six-nine-month interim housing program located in Houston, Texas. Its solution is to provide peer support, mentor programs, and professional development for America's warriors and their families. There is no cost for the veteran or their families. The Veterans also have sessions with Licensed Healthcare professionals weekly. There is no other location like it in the United States; to date, 44% of the Veterans have graduated from the Camp Hope program.Chris Burgess is one of those graduates who is now helping other veterans find a new life by attending Camp Hope.Chris is a United States Marine Corps combat Veteran with service in Afghanistan. He joined the Marine Corps in 2011 and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion 8th Marine Regiment where he served as an infantry rifleman, SAW gunner, radio operator, and eventually as a Scout/Radio operator with Scout Sniper Platoon. Deploying to Afghanistan in 2013, Chris participated in numerous raids and counter-narcotics trafficking operations as part of the 2/8 Aerial Raid Force as well as supporting joint and training operations with the Afghan Commandos and Tiger Teams. After discharging in 2015 due to medical issues, he struggled with depression, daily thoughts of suicide, self-imposed isolation, and constant anxiety until 2018 when he found his way to the program at Camp Hope. Since his graduation in the summer of 2019, Chris has been serving his fellow combat Veterans as a member of the Outreach team. He currently works as the Veteran Navigation Manager where he has the opportunity to be the voice on the other end of the line for veterans in need all across the country.Camp Hope – PTSD Foundation of America | Providing Hope and Healing for the Unseen Wounds of War (ptsdusa.org)PTSD Foundation of America | Providing Hope and Healing for the Unseen Wounds of War (ptsdusa.org)

According to NCBI suicide is the second leading cause of death in youth aged 10–24 years old. They also found an association between increased social media/internet use and suicide attempts in seven studies.Nate Randle is on a mission to change these statistics by providing an alternative to a smart phone. As he tells us in this podcast, its about more than just safe tech, it's about letting these kids know we care and that they are not alone. In a world of 24/7 digital connection, we are raising the lonliest generation.As CEO of Gabb Wireless, Nate brings years of experience and expertise to the nation's leading kid-safe tech company.Nate has held pivotal leadership positions at major companies like Nike, Callaway Golf, Qualtrics, and the Utah Jazz. He joined Gabb in June 2021 as the CMO and took on the CEO role in November 2021.Nate is a husband and father of four. He places the highest priorities on people and family. His focus on family directly translates into his leadership at Gabb, where protecting kids and encouraging a stronger connection between families are core to the Gabb mission.

Dan Briscoe is President at BuildWitt, which is team of people focused on the heavy civil, mining, and demolition industries. Their services include branding, content, websites, HR & recruiting, and business development consulting. Dan, along with a team of innovators, including the social media phenom and CEO of BuildWitt, Aaron Witt are making it cool to work in the dirt. Dan, Liz and Ham talk about the genesis of BuildWitt how they are going to make it a #BetterDirtWorldBuildWitt hosts several of Youturn Health's mental health courses on their site to cover what's called “Safety on the Inside.” Most of their existing videos cover safety from the “outside” – physical safety, job training, etc., so Youturn Health videos help round out their platform as an all-in-one offering to the construction industry.Ariat Dirt World Summit | Dirt WorldSoftware, Services & Story-telling for the Dirt World | BuildWitt(1) Dan Briscoe | LinkedIn(1) Aaron Witt | LinkedIn

Justin, Liz and Hamilton discuss the stigma construction workers face when they need help for their mental health or substance use disorder. He tells his personal story of mental fatigue and how that led to suicidal ideation. He discusses the need for peer support as he sees that as a solution to people feeling like they are alone in their struggles. Justin's Full Bio:Director National EHS, Milwaukee Tool: Mr. Azbill was appointed Director - National EHS at Milwaukee Tool in July 2021, and is responsible for directing the design, implementation, and maintenance of environmental, safety and health programs. Mr. Azbill provides oversight to ensure compliance with all applicable laws to exceed safety regulations.He has over 27 years of experience in Safety and Risk Management, having held key management positions with Kiewit Power, Suffolk Construction, Cannistraro, and Callahan Construction.Throughout his career, Mr. Azbill has created a reputation of success by leveraging a collaborative leadership style which has helped him achieve consistent industry-leading results and build successful partnerships that continue to impact the construction industry.Mr. Azbill has led companies to noticeable safety improvements and increased engagement in incident prevention, fostering a positive safety culture. Evident through his reduction of claims,incidents, and lost time, as well as increased involvement of subcontractor engagement, he has been honored with notable awards including the OSHA VPPP Star award in 2012 (the first time a VPPP Star award was awarded to a construction job in Region 1), MCAA Milwaukee Tool Safety Professional Award, ESGR DOD Patriot Award, Safety Excellence Award by the NSC, and STEP Award by the ABC. Mr. Azbill holds several accredited safety certifications and licenses and attended Johnson County Community College, the University of Kansas, and Thomas Edison University. Mr. Azbill is a sitting member on numerous safety advisory boards and serves as a Director at Large for the Construction Industry Alliance of Suicide Prevention.

Stephanie knows first hand where stress and anxiety on the job can lead. She has been there, and as a law enforcement veteran, she understands how hard ot it is to separate yourself from your job. During this podcast, Stephanie shares her darkest moments and describes how she is making a difference to change the way mental health is handled among all first responders. Stephanie Kiesow, M.S. is a writer, author, speaker, and law enforcement veteran. Stephanie worked for three police agencies on the Central Coast of California during her 16 years of service and served as a contract worker for the Alcoholic Beverage Control, Police and Fire Dispatcher, and Police Officer. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the California State University at Channel Islands and her Master's Degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Liberty University. Stephanie also holds many certifications from various organizations, including ones that involve psychological autopsies.In 2022, Stephanie left her job as a police officer and now helps departments and corporations increase organizational safety and wellness through anecdotal and science-backed methods. In particular, she emphasizes the impact of “workicide” and its importance in suicide prevention and postvention. Stephanie has been a contributing writer for a handful of organizations and has been invited to speak as a guest on several podcasts. When not writing, teaching, or presenting, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband and young sons and taking care of her beloved dogs, cats, and chickens. Website: www.BeWorkWell.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-k-1771761b5/

In 2020, a mission-driven group of volunteers from across the construction industry came together with the goal of saving lives. They collaborated to launch the inaugural Suicide Prevention Week for the industry — a week dedicated to raising awareness about the higher-than-average number of suicides in the construction industry, and to providing resources to help prevent those deaths.Every year, during September — National Suicide Prevention Month — the construction industry will dedicate a week to raising awareness about the unique challenges workers face in construction that lead to suicide and what we can do to prevent it.Join Liz, Hamilton and Chris Lalevee as they discuss the difficulties construction workers face and how he is working to change the system.ABOUT CHRIS in his own words:As for me, I spent many years in the field on cranes. Land, water, mobile and tower. I throughly enjoy what I do. I was asked to work in our referral hall, where I worked for 8 years. Now out as a business agent, in the Hudson County area, I work with our contractors, new contractors & our members on turning out the best in the heavy equipment industry. I also run a program within our union called MAP. This stands for Member Assistance Program. Together with a team of peers, we assist members in getting help for various life issues such as mental health & addiction. I truthfully love doing this and know that helping people is my true calling. I'm always looking to collaborate, present, assist, etc with anything you and/or your company may need. An uncomfortable subject? , yes. Much needed? ABSOLUTELY!Feel free to reach out to me about speaking on these uncomfortable but very real topics and their effect on the construction industry. Available for safety meetings, kick off meetings, conventions, etc.My passion and goal is to raise awareness, inspire and help those in need throughout the construction industry.A healthy workforce is a productive workforce and Local 825 strives to make that possible through constant training, care for our members & contractors as well as possessing the skills needed to bring your jobs in ahead of time and ahead of budget.Reach out and let's talk about how this skilled workforce of over 8000 members, can help you succeed.Follow me:Twitter: CLaleveeInstagram: chris_lalevee

It seems this country has become numb to the Opioid Crisis. We can not bury our heads, mandate it away, or think it only happens to bad people. Hopefully, it won't take a personal tragedy in someone's life to understand that this crosses all demographics. We have had Hamilton on before to discuss his alcohol use disorder, but today he will tell us how a back surgery led him to a long relationship with opioids. Let's stop stigmatizing this crisis and come together for solutions as this affects everyone.Hamilton Baiden is Youturn Health's CEO. Prior to joining Youturn Health, Hamilton was Executive Vice President of Sales at Avella Specialty Pharmacy where he oversaw the growth of the business from a small regional pharmacy to the largest independent specialty pharmacy in the nation. His knowledge and understanding of the pharmacy industry were developed throughout his professional career, working in various roles for prominent pharmaceutical manufacturing companies, including MedImmune, Serono, Daiichi, and Sanofi. A graduate of The Citadel in Charleston, SC, with strong ties to his community, Hamilton served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare, Altered Tails, and currently serves on the National Board of the American Liver Foundation Southwest Division. Hamilton is also in recovery and committed to helping others.

In this podcast featuring Rich Jones with guest, Ward Blanchard, you will hear about Ward's difficult journey to recovery, and what he is doing at the Blanchard Institute to help people struggling with substance use disorder. The game changer with the Blanchard Institute as well as Youturn Health is their unique focus on the family. Listen and learn about the newly formed dynamic partnership between these two paradigm-shifting companies.More about Ward Blanchard:Born and raised on the coast of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Ward's professional career sprouted from the progressive roots of Southern California nearly 15 years ago. Ward's behavioral health career was cultivated through working in all facets of the behavioral health treatment industry. Since moving to Charlotte, NC over four years ago, Ward has become one of the most prominent mental health and Substance Use Disorder professionals in the country for his innovative work with clients and their family systems. Ward founded Blanchard and Associates, LLC over 10 years ago as a private practice focusing on family restructuring, family case management, and family consulting. In 2017, Ward established The Blanchard Institute, LLC, a dual diagnosis outpatient treatment center that incorporates comprehensive family-focused care. Ward and his team approach treatment for behavioral health conditions through a unique family systems model that utilizes multiple evidence-based modalities in their innovative Blanchard family process. Ward has a Master's Degree in Psychology—Marriage and Family Therapy and an MBA in Healthcare administration. Specializing in dual diagnosis treatment, Ward obtained his advanced addiction counseling education credential through the California Association of Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC- II). Ward is also a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) and a credentialed Clinical Supervisor (CSS).In his career that spans across the country, Ward furthered his career while also working alongside some of the world's most well-known behavioral health centers including The Betty Ford Center, Michael's House Dual Diagnosis Center, The Ranch Recovery Center, Foundations Recovery Network, and Southern California's state system. Ward's experience includes interventions, admissions, program design and direction, experiential therapy, long-term case management, and business administration and revenue cycle management. His passion is centered on educating individuals, families, and professionals as he has presented extensively at national conferences, hospital systems, continuing medical education events, and public service events. Ward has an altruistic enthusiasm for educating the professional community about family systems, SUDs, dual diagnosis disorders, the opioid epidemic, and chronic pain.

We have all heard about the difficult job police officers face every single day. The things they see and deal with are unimaginable to most people. So how do they NOT take that home to their families? Hear from two daughters of police officers who had very different experiences growing up. But in their differences, they have found. common mission-helping police officers and their families navigate work and family life. Listen to the passion these women have for changing the narrative around mental health for police officers and their families.Katherine Boyle is originally from Philadelphia, where she was raised in a close-knit family with a strong law enforcement presence. After moving to New York City for college and a successful career in luxury fashion, Katherine completed the NYPD Citizen's Police Academy in December 2019. Shortly thereafter, the heartbreaking chaos of the riots in 2020 led her to move back to the Philadelphia area and sparked a deep desire to fiercely support law enforcement. Motivated by her own father's unwavering dedication to his family first, and career second, Katherine aims to provide tools and resources necessary for police officers to excel in their careers while prioritizing their families and personal lives. With a passion for fostering community and healthy connections, Katherine aspires to make a lasting impact on the well-being of those who serve and protect - and their families. Her mission is to help police officers who want more connection at home with their families by identifying priorities and values beyond the job through in-person and online events.Erin Craw recently completed her doctorate degree at Chapman University studying communication with an emphasis in health and interpersonal communication. She previously earned a bachelor's degree in communication and journalism from the University of Connecticut and a master's degree in health communication from Fairfield University. Erin received her First Responder Support Certification in January 2021 and a certificate in Police Mental Wellness. Her research interests are at the intersection of health and interpersonal communication. More specifically, communication as it relates to social support, stigma, and resilience. Her master's thesis focused on the barriers and facilitators of mental health-related disclosures in police departments. As the daughter of a police officer (37 years on the job in CT) and granddaughter of a firefighter (40 years on the job in CT), she has a true passion for research that informs mental health-related interventions for first responders, enhances communication surrounding mental health, and improves access to support.

Gary C. Cooper is the Executive Chairman of Palmetto Infusion, the CEO & Founder of The Carolus Company, and most recently, the Author of The Success Paradox: How to Surrender & Win in Business and in Life. The book is a Wall Street Journal Bestseller and ranked #1 Bestseller on Amazon in 4 categories as well as #1 New Release in 6 categories. It has also been featured on B&N's list of Top 100 Bestselling eBooks.The companies he leads are on a mission to improve the lives of families and communities in the Carolinas and beyond. Gary built his businesses based on a set of core values: kindness, caring, laughter, and extreme generosity. He is an advocate of servant leadership.His career has been dedicated to providing healthcare that enables people to remain independent, and he enjoyed a great deal of success in home healthcare, home medical equipment, hospice, private duty nursing, home infusion, and ambulatory infusion clinics.In the next chapter of his career, Gary is focused on sharing his profound experiences in business, leadership, and personal development.

Gary C. Cooper is the Executive Chairman of Palmetto Infusion, the CEO & Founder of The Carolus Company, and most recently, the Author of The Success Paradox: How to Surrender & Win in Business and in Life. The book is a Wall Street Journal Bestseller and ranked #1 Bestseller on Amazon in 4 categories as well as #1 New Release in 6 categories. It has also been featured on B&N's list of Top 100 Bestselling eBooks.The companies he leads are on a mission to improve the lives of families and communities in the Carolinas and beyond. Gary built his businesses based on a set of core values: kindness, caring, laughter, and extreme generosity. He is an advocate of servant leadership. His career has been dedicated to providing healthcare that enables people to remain independent, and he enjoyed a great deal of success in home healthcare, home medical equipment, hospice, private duty nursing, home infusion, and ambulatory infusion clinics.In the next chapter of his career, Gary is focused on sharing his profound experiences in business, leadership, and personal development, and recounting the story of how he transformed himself and his business.On the podcast, Gary tells his story of seemingly having it all while slowly dying on the inside. His comeback story is uplifting and powerful!!

A former professional football player whose career spanned 10 years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Randy Grimes spent 20+ years battling an addiction to pain killers developed while treating career- related injuries. He now uses his inspiring story of recovery and his 12+ years in the addictions industry to help victims of drug and alcohol abuse, as an Interventionist and the founding advocate at Pro Athletes In Recovery.In 2012, Randy launched “Pro Athletes in Recovery,” a program designed to help athletes of all levels and anyone else find treatment for addiction and mental health while offering continued support for those already in recovery. Due to the success of Pro Athletes in Recovery, Randy has partnered with the NFL, NHL, Gridiron Greats, After The Impact Fund, MLB, Baseball Assistance Fund, The Jockeys Guild, MMA, PGA, LPGA, NBA, Motorsports Safety Group, Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, and a host of collegiate programs to bring further awareness and treatment services to professional and collegiate athletes and their families. As a result, 100's of former professional and collegiate athletes, as well as 100's of non athletes have since been treated. Randy's passion does not end with athletes; he is committed to helping all families find balance and peace of mind. Randy believes that “when families get well, addicts get well.” Randy has performed countless interventions across the U.S. and in five countries—bringing hope and healing when all seemed lost.Randy has been an exemplary ambassador and example of the power of professional treatment. Married for 41 years to his college sweetheart, Lydia, who is also a Certified Family Addiction Coach, they have two children and four grandchildren. Randy is regularly a commentator on numerous national TV networks and media including NFL Network, Anderson Cooper, Father Albert, CNN, Fox Sports, MSNBC, Fox News, SiriusXM Sports, New York Times, New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and countless others. He has also authored a book titled “Off Center”. A memoir of his career and addiction journey. His “Never Give Up” attitude translates from the gridiron to recovery. On his recovery, Randy states: “God didn't open the gates of heaven and let me in....He opened the gates of hell and let me out!”OffCenterTheBook.comRandyGrimesSpeaks.comProAthletesInRecovery.org

Michael Parker is a Marine Corps veteran, turned cowboy, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. After leaving the Marines, Michael struggled with his mental health, leading to incarceration and multiple suicide attempts. Driven by a desire to understand his mental health and take back the reins in his life, he started searching for alternative ways to heal, besides medication. He discovered his healing through nature and horses. The same selflessness that led him to enlist fueled him to help others gain a "second chance" in their lives. In 2019, Michael set out on his journey to bring his dream to life, creating Second Chance Rehabilitation Ranch. Michael is also the host of Second Chance Podcast where he interviews veterans, first responders, and mental health advocates, sharing their stories to help listeners find hope and a fulfilled life on the other side of mistakes and trauma.Second Chance Rehabilitation Ranch: https://2crranch.com/ Podcast: https://2crranch.com/podcast

First Responders face a unique set of challenges on a daily basis. Andrew Douglas knows this firsthand as his personal trauma coupled with the daily traumas of being a firefighter led him to a suicide attempt. Instead of walking away, he has decided to help his "brothers and sisters" face their pain and heal. In His Own Words:After dedicating years of my life to serving my community as a firefighter/paramedic and union leader, I experienced the personal struggle of dealing with PTSD. Recognizing the importance of mental health support, I co-founded siento, a stigma-free mobile application platform designed to help first responders and professionals in high-stress industries.At siento, our mission is to provide a safe and anonymous space for people to share their feelings, connect with others who understand their challenges, and access the mental health assistance they need. We believe that by fostering an environment of understanding and compassion, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those who serve our communities and work under immense pressure.As a passionate advocate for mental health, I am committed to raising awareness about the importance of mental well-being, and to breaking down barriers that prevent people from seeking the help they need. Let's work together to support and uplift those who dedicate their lives to helping others.https://www.facebook.com/andrew.douglas.334https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-douglas-b358b4226/https://www.instagram.com/the_fresh_outdoors/Tiktok: @thefreshoutdoorshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/siento-inc/?viewAsMember=truewww.siento.io

July Is BIPOC Mental Health Month and Youturn Health wants to recognize mental health advocate Dejr Bostick and highlight the incredible work he is doing.According to Black Health Matters, "Depression among Black men is an oft-unspoken pain that deeply affects the health and quality of life of Black people. In fact, the most current review of evidence on Black men and depression suggests a prevalence of five percent to 10 percent. This figure may be much larger, as depression is commonly underdiagnosed. Even more, the failure to adequately address the roots of Black male depression is undermining our communities and keeping us blind to the deep harm of historical and structural racism.Dejr Bostick is on a mission to reduce stigma and encourage black men to take care of their mental health through an organization he founded called Black Men Meditate.Dejr Bostick, born in Miami, Florida, is a college-educated Marine veteran and one of nine children. Known as the "human spirit whisperer," he has devoted 15 years to understanding human behavior and the impact of meditation and mindfulness on personal transformation. In 2018, Bostick founded Black Men Meditate to provide a safe space for men of color facing stress, anxiety, systemic racism, and societal biases. He is also a recognized financial leader with over 15 years of experience in financial management and consultation. Bostick believes that success in both business and life can be achieved through a focused and attentive mind, which he has achieved through his practice of meditation and mindfulness. He has worked with educational institutions to create mindfulness programs and has spoken at events such as the Clemson University National Men of Color Summit, the Global Society of Engineers, and education centers. He currently runs transformation programs for black male professionals. https://www.instagram.com/blkmenmeditate/?hl=en

According to NIH, "Opioid use disorder and opioid addiction remain at epidemic levels in the U.S. and worldwide. Three million US citizens and 16 million individuals worldwide have had or currently suffer from opioid use disorder (OUD). More than 500,000 in the United States are dependent on heroin."John Watson was seventeen when his best friend was in an accident and given Oxycotin for the pain. Kids being kids, John and his friend discovered that this pill made them feel very good. At the time, no one knew the addictive nature of these drugs and John thought he was just having fun and experimenting. Eight years later, he realized he was trapped and could not stop using on his own. When he couldn't find any on the street, he turned to heroin, something he said he would NEVER do. Listen to John tell his story about how opioids highjacked his brain, stole years of his life and almost killed him. Despite knowing he was on a downward spiral for years, his family never turned their back on him. If you want to better understand the realities of opioid addiction and gain hope when it seems all is lost, listen to John Watson's story and you will know that everyone can recover.

Sean Riley and Rich Jones are NOT waiting for ANYONE to hit rock bottom. Using the peer support model from Responder Health and Youturn Health they are changing the way First Responders get help. In an industry filled with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation, something has to be done differently to meet these brave men and women where they are. First Responders take care of us, we need to care for them!! 7 days a week/ 24 hours a day!!Rich Jones is the Chief Clinical Officer at Youturn Health.Sean started his law enforcement career as San Diego County Deputy Sheriff in 1987 and then relocated to Washington in 1990 and spent over 16 years with the Kirkland Police Department. Sean's many accomplishments include being a member of the International Homicide Investigator's Association, a Homicide and Sexual Assault Detective, a D.A.R.E. Officer, a Gang Officer, and a certified trainer. He is also credited with solving one of the first-ever elder abuse homicide cases in the nation. Sean started his law enforcement career as San Diego County Deputy Sheriff in 1987 and then relocated to Washington in 1990 and spent over 16 years with the Kirkland Police Department. Sean's many accomplishments include being a member of the International Homicide Investigator's Association, a Homicide and Sexual Assault Detective, a D.A.R.E. Officer, a Gang Officer, and a certified trainer. He is also credited with solving one of the first-ever elder abuse homicide cases in the nation. Recognized as an exciting national keynote speaker and trainer in high demand, Sean travels throughout the United States to share his inspirational story, and cutting-edge training in a non-traditional, interactive format. Riley hits those controversial topics “head-on” that have traditionally been taboo in the first responder population.Safe Call Now® provides public safety employees, all emergency services personnel, and their family members nationwide with a simple and confidential way to ask for help. Staffed by first responders, former first responders, and public safety professionals, Safe Call Now® is a safe and confidential place to turn to get help from individuals who understand the demands of a first responder career.Safe Call Now® is a confidential, comprehensive 24-hour crisis referral service for all public safety employees, all emergency services personnel, and their family members nationwide. Safe Call Now® was started in 2009 after landmark legislation guaranteed confidentiality nationwide for all who call the Safe Call Now® crisis line which is staffed by current and former first responders.https://responderhealth.com/Make a Safe Call Now: 206-459-3020 24 hours a day, 7 days a week